AusBonsai

I have a Himalayan cedar, quite old, in the semi cascade style, probably 60 years by now in age. It is planted in a rock and is now totally covered in lichen - very attractive. Lichen will only grow in a healthy environment, and needs unpolluted air. the point is that I am considering removing the lichen with a toothbrush or the like using a weak solution of bleach or the like. i am hesitant to do so but past and present observation of maples, etc in the ground in my area that are covered in lichen tend to lose branches. I tend a 20 foot taiwan maple in this condition.
Some growers encourage lichen, others do not.
I want to keep this tree [the bonsai c. deodara] in good condition so that it may be eventually handed down in the future.
Is there any one out there who would please give me genuine sound advice or opinion. I would sincerely appreciate it.
Mick B

I really love the look of Lichen on trees and bonsai.
if the tree is healthy I would keep it if you like it
I didn't think it would cause any damage at all
it would be interesting to see if antone knows for sure

so any pics ?

I like it, I like the look of it and it does no harm to the tree.
Keep it I say!

Mick

A correlation between lichen and branch death may not imply lichen causes branch death. A correlation may imply a common cause eg. old tree = weak branches and old tree = lichen. I have had no problem with lichen on the trunks and stems of my figs, some of which have had lichen on them for three or four decades. Same for small twig epiphytes. I have sometimes had problem with moss, algae or liverworts on my pot though. All of these things and lichen are killed by Physan or Alginox (benzylalkonium chloride).

Ash

Some lichen is good but sometimes it gets too much, I have a casuarina which got so much lichen it concealed the bark. Some white vinegar and a pastry brush will do the trick
Craigw

would love to see this tree of yours, havnt seen one with liken on. please, please.

I bought that saying that lichen only grows in clean air but how does lichen grow on some of my trees in inner Sydney???